After using several kinds of rice cookers and not being satisfied, I was determined to find the right one for myself through a thorough and detailed research. After reading countless articles on reddit, making notes and comparing the best features of each, I was finally able to come up with one that actually suited my needs. I have read various user reviews as well as the pros and cons of each one and at last decided on one particular kind that worked for me. I chose this because of several key features that I felt set it apart from the rest.
However, I was also able to compile a list of other products that might be right for you, depending on your needs and the features you might be looking for. Keep reading to find out which rice cooker is the best option for you!
Best Overall (My Choice)
Aroma Housewares ARC-954SBD Rice Cooker, 4-Cup uncooked 2.5 Quart, Professional Version
With a solid four star rating on Amazon, this professional rice cooker is fairly easy to use and comes with programmable digital controls with automatic Keep-Warm and white rice, brown rice, steam and quick rice functions. In addition to these, it also comes with a saute then simmer function that ensures your rice is fully cooked to perfection. Unlike most other rice cookers, this one also steams meat and vegetables while your rice cooks below and also comes with a 15 hour delay timer that guarantees flexible meal planning. It perfectly cooks up to 8 cups of any kind of rice and also comes with a steam tray, rice measuring cup and serving spatula.
The cooker is easy to use and clean and the quality of the material also does justice to the price. Although it does take some getting used to and it is probably a good idea to read the manual first, once you have become accustomed to this cooker, you will find that it definitely beats the rest both in design as well as the quality of rice that it makes. The rice is has perfect texture and is fluffy. Moreover, you will find that not a lot of cookers allow you to steam your vegetables and meat at the same time as when your rice is being cooked. The cooker also lasts a substantial amount of time and is therefore a good investment to make.
https://www.amazon.com/Aroma-Housewares-ARC-954SBD-uncooked-Professional/
Best for Cooking Variety
Zojirushi NS-LAC05XT Micom 3-Cup Rice Cooker and Warmer
If you are looking for a rice cooker that can help you make a variety of foods, then this one is for you since it allows you to make numerous kinds of rice such as white, brown, sweet or porridge. It also comes with cooking functions for white/mixed, sushi, porridge, brown, and quick cooking. Moreover, it also comes with other settings and accessories. A sensor on the inside of the cooker makes it possible to adjust the cooking time and temperature according to the kind of rice that is being cooked. The rice cooker comes with an interchangeable melody and beep signal to notify when the cooking is completed and also features an inner pan that has measuring lines to allow for control of ingredients. It also comes with a measuring cup, spatula and other items.
The only downside of this cooker is that the rice cooked would only serve small families. The three cup capacity would mean that you would only be able to cook six cups of rice. However, it takes up minimal counter space and provides even heating for all the rice.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/ZOJIRUSHI-Outside-Microcomputer
Maximum Capacity and Durability
Zojirushi NS-ZCC10 Neuro Fuzzy Rice cooker
This kind of rice cooker is perfect for a large family and has a capacity of up to 5.5 cups of rice. It also comes with a keep warm, extended keep warm and reheating cycle that ensures the rice stays warm inside. This rice cooker also comes with an interchangeable melody and beep signal to notify when the rice is ready. In addition to these, it also features the micro computerized Fuzzy Logic technology. The digital controls and LCD display both make sure that the cooker works perfectly and satisfies customers. Moreover, it also comes with other options such as white/sushi, mixed, porridge, sweet, brown, cake, steam and quick cooking. The lid is removable and the inner pan has a non-stick coating which makes cleaning it very easy.
The rice cooker also comes with its own steam basket which lets you steam food at the same time. Moreover, the retractable power cord makes it easier to carry and store. It can serve a large number of people and is a product with both quality as well as durability.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Zojirushi-Cooker-NS-TSQ10-Stainless-220-230V/
Convenience and Value for Money
ARC-753SG Stainless Steel 6-Cup Rice Cooker
If you are looking for simplicity and good value for money then this is the right cooker for you. The simple stainless steel is sturdy and durable, and the cooker also comes with a stainless steel inner pot, tempered glass lid, measuring cups and spatula. Despite its low price range, the cooker comes with a variety of features that are sure to provide maximum satisfaction. The inner pot is made from surgical grade 304 stainless steel and also has non stick properties so it offers a health conscious approach to your meal as well. Once the rice is cooked, it will automatically switch to a keep-warm setting. You can also make veggies, jambalaya or a fluffy cake in the cooker. The only downside is that it is not very efficient with sushi, mixed rice or brown rice.
However, it is very reliable for cooking regular rice within a short span of time and comes with a bamboo spatula. The inner pot and other accessories can be removed for easy cleanup in the dishwasher and the cooker is sure to give you restaurant quality rice and one pot dishes in the comfort of your own home at a very affordable price.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Aroma-Stainless-Digital-Multicooker-Steamer/